Elephant Angels celebrate early success

Elephant Angels, the free advice service launched in mid-September, this week announced that it has already held more than 1,600 advice sessions with Southwark residents. And to celebrate it is offering the 2000th person a £50 Tesco voucher.

Offering advice and information to all people over the age of 16 who live within the Elephant and Castle regeneration zone, the Elephant Angels have been busy helping local residents over the last few weeks with a wide range of problems – including housing, education, employment, training, securing benefits, and even with making friends.

With their unique approach, Elephant Angels are happy to get involved with every aspect of any situation to ensure the best result. This may include researching opportunities, referring people to specialist agencies, helping write a CV, completing forms, or escorting people to interviews.

The Elephant Angels team can be visited or telephoned at the drop-in centre on Brandon Street in the Heygate Estate, but information can also be found at places such as the Job Centres, Housing Associations and libraries.

Commenting on the initial success of the project, Director of Elephant Angels, Norman McLean said: "Although it is still early days for Elephant Angels, the number of local people that the team has already helped is fantastic! The support for the project – from residents, the media and from local MP Simon Hughes – has been amazing and is very much appreciated. Local residents can drop-in to our centre between 10am and 4pm on weekdays or call us on 020 7252 6870 – we look forward to our 2000th advice session!: